Paul Kolnik
The Ailey organization continues to honor its founder who taught the important lesson of “holding a mirror to society so that people can see how beautiful they are,” by offering Ailey All Access, a free online initiative that illuminates the human spirit and sparks change. Since March 30, the streaming series has reached millions across the globe with free performance broadcasts of full length works from the repertory, Ailey Extension dance and fitness classes, and more.
Performance Broadcasts
In the seventh decade since the Company’s founding, the extraordinary dancers are continuing Alvin Ailey’s legacy by moving viewers around the world with their brilliant artistry. In celebration of Jazz Appreciation Month, Ailey All Access will premiere broadcast of Jamar Roberts’
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater performances set to the music of
Duke Ellington and
Ailey Extension dance and fitness classes this April.
Ailey All Access is an online initiative that offers free online performances, live-streamed dance classes, and other special programming. The goal is to build community and “celebrate the indomitable human spirit through dance.” Alvin Ailey’s classic
Blues Suite is available for viewing until April 13. The performance is from the 1985 PBS Great Performances television special
Three by Three and features an introduction by
Alvin Ailey, himself.
To celebrate Jazz music, as well as modern dance, Ailey All Access will drop
UPFRONT Inside the Entertainment Industry is all about
#BlackGirlMagic. It features Ailey Extension Director Lisa Johnson Willingham,
Batwoman star Javicia Leslie and Golden Globen nominated actress and star of
The United States vs. Billie Holiday -Andra Day.
The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater presents the
Ailey Experience Atlanta Virtual Weekend taking place now through Sunday evening. Fans and dance enthusiasts alike can take part in several virtual classes taught by Alvin Ailey dancers. Ailey Extention director Lisa Johnson Willingham is here to chat about these classes and workshops and what the company s masterpiece
Revelations means to her this Black History Month.
When the pandemic ended in-person performances, Ailey dancers were among the earliest to appear online.
Now, Ailey Extension and AREA Atlanta present “Ailey Experience Destination Dance Atlanta.” This will be a virtual, multiday festival Feb. 19-21.
“City Lights” host Lois Reitzes spoke with Matthew Rushing, associate artistic director at Ailey, and Lisa Johnson-Willingham, director of Ailey Extension, about the festival.
“Mr. Ailey’s choreography is so accessible. It’s simple and profound at the same time. I really enjoy being able to teach such iconic work to people who may not have been studying as long as professional dancers, but there’s always still room for everyone in Mr. Ailey’s choreography. I’m anticipating having that exchange with the dancers,” Rushing said.